Plan a school visit
Our unique inquiry-based learning programs align with the Australian Curriculum, are led by museum educators and most programs are eligible for the Parliamentary and Civics Education Rebate (PACER).
Make a booking
Our programs cover a variety of key learning areas across the curriculum and cater for K-12. All programs cost $7 per student. Accompanying teachers and adults enter free of charge.
Bookings are essential as all programs are facilitated by museum educators. To make a booking visit Book Canberra Excursions. To discuss tailoring your program please contact our learning team at bookings@moadoph.gov.au or call 02 6270 8282.
Before you arrive
As a national heritage building, we have specific requirements for visiting groups. Please make sure you are familiar with our Venue and safety guidelines.
Each program is strictly limited to a maximum of 50 students and requires a 1:10 carer-to-student ratio. Double-check your attending numbers before travel to ensure nobody has to sit out.
We request that you bring a first aid kit, including any of your students’ prescribed medications.
Programs will start on time so consider scheduling a bathroom and lunch break before or after your visit.
PACER
Most of our programs are eligible for the Parliamentary and Civics Education Rebate (PACER). Submit your application for approval to PACER at least 3 weeks before your visit.
We will check numbers and stamp PACER paperwork as you present for your program. You will be invoiced post-visit.
Getting here
Coach parking is at the front or west side of Old Parliament House, a minute’s walk to the school entrance.
Enter through the school entry at the front of Old Parliament House, just to the left of the main entrance. Accessible entrances are available at the front, too.
Please leave all personal items on the coach. Students are welcome to bring a small camera.
No food or drink is allowed inside the building.
If you’re running late, contact us on 02 6270 8282.
During your visit
Each program is 60 minutes.
A 1:10 carer-to-student ratio is required for all visiting groups. Duty of care remains with the accompanying teachers while onsite.
Schools are welcome to use the rose gardens on either side of Old Parliament House to eat lunch and use the bathroom blocks.
Access
For mobility, sensory, lighting and content guidance please visit our Access page.
Sensory boxes are available to support students.
Frequently asked questions
Can you make the program shorter?
No. Eligibility for the PACER stamp requires participation in the program for its entire duration.
Can we book more than one program?
Yes, depending on availability. Speak with our bookings team to explore options.
Can we self-guide?
No. Due to the heritage value of the building, all groups need to pre-book and be accompanied by a MoAD museum educator.
What is the teacher-student ratio?
All visiting school groups require a ratio of 1 teacher or adult to every 10 students. All teachers/adults accompanying a school group enter free of charge.
What should we do if our number of students change?
Please contact our bookings team as soon as possible. We have a strict maximum of 50 students per program.
What should I do if we are running late?
Please let us know as soon as possible on 02 6270 8282.
Is there access for students and teachers with mobility needs?
The front entrance, accessed either side of the main stairs, provides level access and an elevator to the school orientation space. Wheelchairs are available upon request. All levels of Old Parliament House are serviced by accessible elevators.
Please let us know of any student needs ahead of your visit and we will gladly assist.
Are there services for students with sensory or engagement needs?
We also have a sensory box option as part of our onsite primary program. We have a social narrative about visiting the museum.
Please let us know of any student needs ahead of your visit and we will gladly assist.
Are there bathroom facilities on site?
There are limited bathroom facilities within Old Parliament House. Schools are encouraged to use the bathroom blocks in the rose gardens on either side of Old Parliament House. Consider planning time before and after your visit for a break.
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